1. From Highchair to Hot Rod
Wheelchairs came into being as a mode of transportation to help a person with limited or no mobility reach their destination. King Phillip II of Spain is one of the first persons depicted in a wheelchair, one that required others to move it on his behalf and looked remarkably like a highchair. Stephen Farfler devised the first manual wheelchair with handles that turned to move the wheels. Wheelchairs have become more lightweight and portable, and today most fold flat for easy storage.
2. Manual and Motorized
There are a variety of wheelchair styles available for most budgets. The rider propels a manual wheelchair by manipulating the wheels on each side of the chair. Electric wheelchairs are powered by lightweight motors that need to be plugged in each night and are controlled by a joystick. Scooters move at a higher rate of speed than an electric wheelchair and often contain baskets for carrying things. The proper style wheelchair helps the rider remain mobile and active.
3. Pimp my Wheelchair
There are a variety of options available when it comes to picking a wheelchair. Some chairs are designed for hand to control both wheels. Seats can be widened or lengthened to accommodate paraplegics who transport young children. Just about every size and shape can be accommodated by some model of wheelchair. Many chairs sport storage pockets similar to those in vehicles. Sports wheelchairs are built to allow athletes to compete in a variety of sports, including wheelchair races, mountain racing, tennis, water sports and basketball.
4. Your Child's First Set of Wheels
Wheelchairs made for kids are significantly different from an adult wheelchair. For younger kids, the wheelchair is tilted back and includes harnesses to help keep the body upright and comfortable. In addition, a wheelchair for children often includes an oversize tray to accommodate games, food and drink, homework and other projects. Rather than the traditional handles, these tiny chairs are maneuvered by a bar across the back, similar to a stroller, to make it easier for parents to control.
5. Get a Wheelchair Prescription
To get a wheelchair, you first must visit your doctor for a prescription. Most insurance companies will cover a portion of the wheelchair's cost, but electric or motorized wheelchairs can still be more expensive for the patient. Insurance companies have different rules to determine how much they'll pay for a wheelchair; most require the patient be confined to a chair or bed without one. Once you have a prescription, take it to a medical supply store and they'll measure you for a chair that offers the proper support and comfort for your needs.
